All through the night

Q: I'm able to fall asleep relatively easily, but what I have trouble with is staying asleep once I get there. I wake up after an hour or so and then can't fall back asleep for hours sometimes. Do you have any recommendations?

JVW: It sounds as though you're suffering from a condition known as sleep maintenance insomnia. Several years ago, my colleague (and regular Nutrition & Healing columnist) Kerry Bone wrote an article on insomnia, and one of the best remedies he has found for this form of the condition is an herb called chaste tree.

Research shows that it can actually increase the body's own natural production of melatonin, which helps you have more restful uninterrupted sleep. The studies on this herb used various doses of chaste tree, ranging from 120 to 480 milligrams. To determine the dose that is best for you, consult with a physician skilled in herbal medicine. For a list of such physicians in your area, contact the American Academy of Environmental Medicine (316-6845500; www.aaem.com).

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